Accounts payable skills and qualifications

an Accounts Payable working on her computer in the workplace

What skills do you need for an accounts payable role?

Some of the key skills that are needed for an accounts payable role include:

Strong data entry skills for expense reports
Proficient in Microsoft Excel
Knowledge of accounting principles and accounts payable processes
Familiarity with purchase order processes
Ability to work independently and take initiative

If you’re aiming to join an accounts payable department, start by reviewing our detailed accounts payable job description to discover the key skills and qualifications required for success.

What qualifications do you need for an accounts payable role?

In order to work as an accounts payable professional, you typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates with an associate’s or bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Having experience in bookkeeping or accounting is also beneficial.

What experience are employers looking for from accounts payable professionals?

Employers are usually looking to hire candidates with the following qualifications and experience:

A high school diploma or equivalent
A degree in accounting, finance, or a related field
Proven experience in accounts payable processes or similar payable department roles
Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Excel and computer accounting software such as QuickBooks Online, XERO and SAP
Ability to work well with team members from other departments, such as human resources and purchasing
Knowledge and demonstrated experience in effective communication, project management strategies and teamwork
Good time management skills and conflict resolution techniques

The skills, qualifications and experience employers look for when hiring in the accounts payable team depends on the specific role. For example, an accounts payable clerk and an accounts payable manager have different skill sets employers look for, and the same can be said for accounts payable specialists.

Can you start in an accounts payable role with no experience?

Yes. Many professionals begin in accounts payable jobs with little or no experience. If you’re skilled in data entry, have a solid grasp of basic accounting concepts, and can meet deadlines in a timely manner, you could be a great fit for an entry-level role.

Consider obtaining a diploma or degree in accounting or finance and gaining experience in handling financial records or expense reports to boost your profile.

Do you need to study/go to university to be an accounts payable officer?

No, not necessarily. While tertiary education can help, many start their careers in the accounts payable department with a high school qualification.

What matters most are your skills — such as attention to detail, the ability to maintain timely payments, and familiarity with accounts payable processes. You can improve your chances of being hired by obtaining a degree in accounting or finance.

What skills does an accounts payable officer need to have?

Accounts payable officers are responsible for overseeing and organising the flow of money in and out of a company. A key contributor to ensuring an organisation's financial health, a successful accounts payable officer typically demonstrates:

Organisational skills to manage the payable processes and ensure accurate and timely payments
Analytical skillsfor interpreting financial transactions and data to spot inconsistencies and make informed decisions.
Problem-solving skills to handle issues like incorrect vendor invoices or payment delays.
Negotiation skills are essential for identifying cost-saving opportunities, such as securing early payment discounts.
Communication skills are key to enhancing supplier relationships and liaising with internal teams.
Time management and the ability to multi-task, while having a sharp eye for detail are crucial for keeping cash flow on track.

How do you upskill as an accounts payable officer?

To grow in your role and expand your career opportunities, consider building your skills with targeted learning. Experience gained in accounts payable jobs is often transferrable to other roles such as accounts receivable, accounting support, or procurement for example.

If you’re ambitious and looking to upskill to increase your chances of progressing your career, Hays Learning offers free online courses to help you boost your skill set. Start upskilling with Hays Learning, register now for free.

Learn more about the role such as the average accounts payable salaries in Australia. Ready to start your job search? Get in touch with our consultants at your nearest Hays office.

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